POWERHOUSE COLLECTION

Splayd eating utensils in a presentation box

Object No. 91/1168

Released in 1962, when buffet lunches and barbecues were becoming popular in Australia, Splayds caught on quickly and were a favourite wedding gift in the 1970s. They were easy to use, informal and more socially acceptable than eating with the hands. They also saved on washing up. Splayds are often considered as an icon of Australian product design. The initial design by William McArthur in the late 1940s was sold to Stokes Pty Ltd in 1960. The company then redesigned the product for mass production. By 1991 Stokes had sold 4.75 million Splayds in 52 countries.

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Summary

Object Statement

Splayd eating utensils (4) in box, stainless steel / plastic / flock / card, designed by William McArthur, Australia,1940s, made under licence and distributed by Stokes (Australasia) Limited, Korea, 1991

Physical Description

Splayd eating utensils, (4), in box, stainless steel, William McArthur/ Stokes (Australasia) Limited, Korea, 1991

SOURCE

Credit Line

Gift of Stokes (Australasia) Limited, 1991

Acquisition Date

30 September 1991

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